Sunnyside neighborhood, 1st Ave. SE design update

In fall 2023, we shared a design concept for the intersection. The design was based on input from the community earlier in the year.

During that time some Sunnyside residents expressed concerned about the proposed cul-de-sac. We partnered with residents and the City of Rochester to get more feedback. We sent a letter to residents, informing them of the cul-de-sac and asked their opinion. A neighborhood volunteer also distributed letters. Individuals shared their opinions through a survey or contacted us. Others also participated in one of three listening sessions in January and February 2024.

Many individuals who opposed the cul-de-sac shared that they use the 1st Ave. SE to access their homes. They cited congestion and driver behaviors on 3rd Ave. SE as why they find alternate routes. Those who favored the cul-de-sac felt it could help reduce through traffic on 1st Ave. SE.

MnDOT developed an updated design based on this input from the community. We provided an update in July 2024.

Based on input from Sunnyside residents and others in the community, MnDOT is moving forward with plans to construct a right-turn-in-only intersection at Hwy 14 and 1^st Ave. SE. This change should allow people continued access to the neighborhood. It should also reduce through traffic.

Thank you to everyone who provided feedback. The project management team will move forward with implementing this design update.